Lightweight shoes are often seen as the ideal choice. In running, lower weight can improve efficiency and reduce fatigue. But lighter is not always better. What matters more than how light a shoe feels is how its weight is distributed.

For runners, lightweight shoes can make movement easier. However, when weight reduction compromises cushioning or stability, discomfort and injury risk increase. Lightweight should be one factor in choosing a shoe, not the only one.

A well designed shoe focuses on balance. Instead of removing material everywhere, weight should be placed where the foot needs support. Plaeto shoes follow this principle by keeping the upper light, the midsole cushioned, and the outsole slightly heavier. This bottom heavy structure improves stability, prevents the shoe from feeling floppy, and reduces unwanted twisting of the foot.

Ultra light shoes often achieve their low weight by thinning the midsole. This reduces shock absorption and increases impact on the body. Over time, it can lead to fatigue and discomfort, especially for children and for everyday use. Durability also suffers when shoes are too light. Thin foams and fabrics break down faster, causing shoes to lose support quickly.

Support elements like heel counters, arch stability, and side wall structure are essential for proper alignment. Many ultra light designs remove these features, which can affect comfort and foot control.

So what is the right weight for a shoe? It depends on the wearer and the activity. Higher body weight creates more impact and usually needs more cushioning and stability. Larger shoe sizes naturally weigh more, but balance matters more than grams. Running shoes typically range from 180 to 320 grams per shoe depending on use. Walking and all day wear are most comfortable between 260 and 350 grams. For kids, structure and durability matter more than extreme lightness, usually within 180 to 260 grams.

The ideal shoe should feel stable when you land, cushioned but not soft, supportive through the heel and midfoot, and responsive during push off.

Lightweight has its benefits, but the real advantage comes from the right weight, placed correctly. That is how Plaeto shoes deliver comfort, stability, and long term performance without sacrificing protection.